There is often talk of 'universal languages' - things that will allow you to communicate with people you otherwise wouldn't be able to. Like love, or mathematics. But, at the end of the day, the best way to communicate with people from all around the world is not cupid's bow or a quadratic equation - it's to learn their language!
Large swathes of the english-speaking world seem to be filled with a language arrogarnce - an assumption that everyone else everywhere they might want to go around the globe will know their tongue. However, there are just 700 million english speakers, with two-thirds of the 400 million native speakers living in the United States. So, if you want a guarantee of being understood overseas it's best to at least get familiar with another tongue.
Some languages are more difficult than others, but it's best to pick one you already have an interest in. For example, perhaps you've always wanted to visit a certain country or have an interest in some type of foreign food, dance, history or society. If you can't think of an aspect of foreign culture that excites you, there's no reason why you can't use learning a language as a means of finding one! Having this extra motivation or reason to learn will really make it easier to stay on track during the tough times.
As with most hobbies, language-learning has many casualties, with countless cupboards filled with language books and tapes never used past the first couple of chapters. If you do choose to pick up a second language, I would recommend finding yourself a tutor. Obviously this is more expensive that just buying a book or a CD and working through it yourself, but consider the following:
• You're much more likely to stick with the language past the first fortnight if you have someone else involved in the process. In a way it's similar to starting an exercise plan with someone else as opposed to on your own - you're more likely to do something when you don't feel like it if somebody else is depending on you.
• It's a great way to get the pronunciation right. If you are going to go to the effort of becoming bilingual, you want to be understood when you try out your second language! A person can guide you and give you feedback much better than an audio recording
• You can also gain an understanding of the culture. Many language tutors or teachers will be native speakers themselves, with the culture of the language as part of their heritage. You'll be surprised at the amount of extra information about customs, music, food and tastes that you can pick up in this fashion.
• A tutor will not only be able to point you in the direction of the right materials to buy (or perhaps even loan you), but they'll also be able to introduce you to other sources that you can learn from, such as music, TV shows and written articles. This is bound to be more exciting than lesson after lesson from a textbook.
Many language teachers advertise, but a great place to look for a mentor is your local college or university. Many bilingual students make extra money by offering their language skills and there will already be tutors handy for language students.
So whether you're planning on travelling overseas, learning more about another culture or simply want to keep your mind active, learning a second language could be for you. Why wait for tomorrow? Get started today.
About the Author:
The author is an Australian university student who has just taken up Spanish. Read his blog at http://itsmysoapbox.blogspot.com
Source: www.isnare.com
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